BE VISIBLE, BE SMART!5 Things To Do Before Your First Job in PR

1. Know PR

Do your research: Understand the what the job involves

Hone your skills: Multitasking, analyzing, summarizing…

Expand your scope: learn different types of PR

Investigate your options: in-house vs. agency

2. Manage Your Digital Life

Have one! Get on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook; start blogging…

Clean up! Pictures, posts, comments… Be searchable! Put your resume/portfolio

on VisualCV or other similar site Google yourself! Prospective employers

will…

3. Write!

Write, write, write! Practice Makes Perfect

The AP Style Guide: live it, breathe it, know it.

Practice writing releases and other PR collateral in a timed setting

4. Read!

You will be asked what you read in interviews

Know the major players in your industry: reporters, analysts, bloggers

Read major publications in your industry Set up Google reader or some other

reader to manage

5. Get out there and meet people!

Network! Attend events like PRSA, ColdPavement, SMC, SMB, WTIA

Set up informational interviews Have personal business cards Follow through, thank you cards, follow-

up email Don’t ask for a job; engage in a

conversation and build a relationship!

Mindset vs. Checklist

“Attitude is more important than skill at this point in your career.”

“Problem solver. Quick on your feet. Flexible and open to new challenges.”

“Willingness: Jump in. Show your interest and curiosity. Ask questions if you don’t know. Go the extra mile right from the start…”

“Be willing to take on and do anything - with a great attitude, follow up and follow through.”

Questions?

Karianne Stinson

Mallory Thompson